The development of innovative autonomous vehicles (AV) with increased efficiency and low carbon emissions is of interest to many different organisations across the world, at both political, commercial and research levels. Recognising the potential, transportation authorities are already investing heavily in studies to exploit these innovative technologies through the development of 'platooning' methods, whereby a series of vehicles run in close formation, exploiting potential energy savings created through a reduction in drag, further enabling greater mobility.
To date, most AV research has focused on ensuring the technical possibilities for vehicles travelling in close formation through the implementation of autonomous guidance systems. These factors are however only one area of consideration when introducing new operational methods that involve complex vehicle interactions into an already a complex transport mode. There is also a need to understand and correctly account for the highly turbulent aerodynamic flow created around platoons and unsteady forces leading to vehicle instabilities and dangerous conditions for other road users.
The proposed doctorial work will look to develop aerodynamic understanding of the effect of crosswinds on the aerodynamic interaction of overtaking HGV lorry type vehicles in a platoon formation. The project will be achieved through a range of experimental studies at model scale using the University of Birmingham TRAIN rig facility.
Prospective students should hold at least a 2:1 Bachelors degree (or equivalent GPA from non-UK universities [preference for 1st class honours]) or a Masters degree (preference for Merit or above) in a relevant technical subject (Engineering, Mathematics or Physics) and should be eligible for Home fees. The project is well suited to motivated and hard-working candidates with a keen interest in vehicle aerodynamics. The applicant should have excellent communications skills, including proven ability to write in English.
The School of Engineering is a worldwide leading institution for research and education, with over 130 academics, researchers and professional support staff. The successful candidate will work in the Wind Engineering and Vehicle Aerodynamics Research Group, which is a fast growing research group with outstanding international reputation and close relationships with industry.
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